There are several ways that a Performer can become a member of UBCP/ACTRA:

How to join as a Background Extra Member

How to join as an Apprentice Member (1 Credit, see note below)

How to join as a Full Member (3 Credits, see note below)

Earning Credits toward Apprentice and Full Membership

In order to join UBCP/ACTRA as an apprentice or full member, you must earn “credits”.  A credit may be earned  in the following ways: 

1. landing one professional engagement in a residual category for which you paid a “permit” to UBCP/ACTRA, or
2. Graduating with a post-secondary  degree or diploma in Acting from a qualifying institution (see list below) which included at least 1000 hours of performance based work*, or
3. Working 200 days or 1600 hours as a card carrying Background Extra Member (this only applies for a first credit toward Apprentice of Full Membership)

Note*  If you have received a degree or diploma, which includes at least 1000 hours of performance based work, please contact us to see if you qualify for an Education Credit.  Only degrees or diplomas issued by qualifying schools after January 1, 2009, are eligible for consideration.

Qualifying institutions are:
University of British Columbia – Bachelor of Fine Arts/Acting
Studio 58 at Langara College – Diploma in Theatre Arts/Acting
Vancouver Film School – Diploma in Acting for Film and Television
New Image College – Film Acting Conservatory Diploma
Capilano University – Acting for the Stage and Screen Diploma, or Musical Theatre Diploma

This list does not imply endorsement by UBCP.

The list of qualifying institutions is subject to change at any time at the discretion of UBCP. Other schools may meet the eligibility requirements but have not applied. This list will be updated as schools apply and satisfy the criteria to qualify for the education credit.